Maharashtra, a land of spirituality and devotion, is home to five of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas in India. These sacred shrines of Lord Shiva hold immense significance for devotees and attract pilgrims from across the country. If you are planning a spiritual trip, exploring the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is a must. Let’s embark on this divine journey and explore these powerful abodes of Lord Shiva.
The Significance of Jyotirlingas
Jyotirlingas are special shrines where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his luminous (Jyoti) form. As per Hindu mythology, these temples mark the places where Lord Shiva appeared as a divine column of light. There are a total of twelve Jyotirlingas in India, out of which five Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra are of great importance.
5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra List
If you are planning to visit all Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra, here is a complete list of the five sacred temples:
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Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Pune District)
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Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Nashik District)
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Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Aurangabad District)
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Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga (Hingoli District)
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Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga (Beed District)
Each of these temples has a rich history, mythological significance, and unique architectural beauty. Let’s explore them in detail.
1. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – A Spiritual Retreat in the Sahyadris
Nestled in the Sahyadri hills, Bhimashankar is one of the most visited Jyotirlinga temples in Maharashtra. It is believed that Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar to defeat the demon Bhima. Surrounded by lush greenery, this temple offers a serene spiritual experience. Apart from the temple, the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a major attraction for nature lovers.
2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – The Source of River Godavari
Located in Nashik, Trimbakeshwar is a unique Jyotirlinga as it features three lingas representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. It is also the origin of the sacred Godavari River. The temple, built in black stone, showcases intricate architectural designs. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple helps in attaining salvation.
3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – The Smallest Yet Most Powerful Shrine
Situated near the famous Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Grishneshwar is the smallest of the twelve Jyotirlingas. It was reconstructed by Ahilyabai Holkar and is known for its beautiful carvings. The temple’s simplicity and spiritual aura make it a must-visit destination.
4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – The Ancient Shiva Temple
Located in Hingoli district, Aundha Nagnath is one of the oldest Jyotirlinga temples in Maharashtra. It is believed to have been built during the time of the Pandavas. The temple’s unique Hemadpanthi architecture and historical significance attract thousands of devotees every year.
5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – The Abode of Healing Powers
Parli Vaijnath, located in Beed district, is considered a sacred site for healing. Devotees believe that offering prayers here can cure ailments and bring prosperity. The temple is situated on a small hill and provides a mesmerizing view of the surroundings.
Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Tour Plan
Planning a trip to these divine places requires a well-structured itinerary. Here’s a suggested tour plan:
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Day 1: Start from Mumbai and visit Bhimashankar.
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Day 2: Travel to Nashik and visit Trimbakeshwar.
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Day 3: Head to Aurangabad to visit Grishneshwar.
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Day 4: Proceed to Hingoli for Aundha Nagnath.
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Day 5: End your tour with Parli Vaijnath and return.
For those looking for a shorter pilgrimage, you can also visit the Jyotirling near Mumbai, such as Bhimashankar, which is the closest to the city.
Which Jyotirling is Not Located in Maharashtra?
While Maharashtra is blessed with five Jyotirlingas, the remaining seven are located in different states. Some of the well-known ones include Somnath (Gujarat), Kashi Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh), and Kedarnath (Uttarakhand).
Mumbai Jyotirlinga – Is There One in the City?
Many devotees often wonder if there is a Jyotirlinga in Mumbai. While Mumbai does not have an official Jyotirlinga, it is home to several significant Shiva temples like the Babulnath Temple and Walkeshwar Temple, where devotees can seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is a spiritually enriching experience. Whether you are a devotee or a traveler seeking peace, these temples offer an atmosphere of devotion and divinity. Plan your journey, seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, and immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of these sacred shrines.
Are you ready for your Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Tour Plan? Pack your bags and embark on this divine journey today!